Nigel Lythgoe Confirms Return to American Idol

With Simon Cowell out of the American Idol fold, former producer Nigel Lythgoe - who left this post in 2008 - has returned to the show he helped make famous. He released the following statement today:

"Working as executive producer on American Idol for its first seven years not only was an inspirational journey into the heart of American pop culture, it opened my eyes to the untapped potential of the incredibly dynamic young people in this world... I am elated and honored to be rejoining childhood friend and fellow executive producer Ken Warwick, and look forward to creating more magic.”

Will that magic include Lythgoe as a judge? No.

What about Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler? Lythgoe would not confirm those rumors, but is on record as saying he "loves" Paula Abdul and would love to have her back on Idol.

That wacky judge is under contract with CBS for a new dance show, however. No word yet on whether or not her pharmacist is changing networks with her.